Common Motorcycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them

As thrilling and freeing as it may be, let’s face it: Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. Especially in Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley, where road rage seems to be at an all-time high. As a motorcyclist, you probably are aware that bikes also offer great tools to avoid crashing — incredibly powerful brakes, obstruction-free vision, excellent handling and tires that “grip”. Here’s how to use those tools to avoid one of these common motorcycle accidents.

A Car Turns Left In Front Of You

This is the most common motorcycle accident. Either the automobile fails to see you or misjudges your speed, turning in front of you at an intersection. Avoid it by being extra alert. Look for signs that could indicate someone may turn in front of you; i.e. a car is at an intersection waiting to turn, there’s a gap in traffic near an intersection, driveway or parking lot. In either situation, slow down, cover your brakes and get ready to take evasive action.

You Hit Gravel In A Blind Corner

You’re out riding a thrilling, windy road when without warning, you round a corner to find a patch of sand/gravel/leaves/whatever in your path. You put your front tire in it and wipe out. Avoid it by not hitting it in the first place. It is important to ride at a pace where your reaction time and ability to take action fit within your range of vision.

You Entered A Corner Too Fast

And now you’re just not going to make it around. Avoid it by only riding as fast as you can see and using visual clues (like telephone polls and signs) to judge a road’s direction, even if that road is disappearing over a blind crest.

A Car Changes Lane Into You

You’re riding in traffic on the 101 or 405 when a car in another lane suddenly veers into you. Motorcycles can easily fit into blind spots so avoid this type of accident by being aware of where blind spots lie and avoiding them as often as possible. If you can see a driver’s eyes in their mirrors, then they have the ability to see you, too.

A Car Hits You From Behind

Also known as the “fender bender” in car accident lingo. You’re stopped at a stop sign or pedestrian walkway when the driver behind you doesn’t see you and plows into you at high speed. A fender bender can kill a motorcyclist. Avoid this type of accident by pulling in between a line of cars.

Motorcycle accidents in the San Fernando Valley are serious. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or motorcycle accident, contact experienced personal injury attorney Barry P. Goldberg to discuss your legal rights and potential for financial recovery.

Results Oriented, Trustworthy and Knowledgeable

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Car Accident Client

Highly Knowledgeable and Responsive

As an attorney with a legal matter outside my area of expertise, one involving my own family member, I decided to contact Mr. Goldberg after viewing some of his quality legal work. His grasp of the particulars was very impressive, as was his advice in regard to proceeding forward. His speedy and friendly response was refreshing, highlighting an engaged and highly competent professional.

Personal Injury Client

Negotiating a Settlement and Social Media

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Insurance Law Client

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Cicycle vs. SUVDave, a Car Accident Client

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I was kept up-to-date at all times, even when I didn’t call them. Sarah was sure to update me anytime new info came in. I would recommend Barry to my family. This is a great law office, so there’s no need to continue searching around and worrying who to call. You have found the people you are looking for. They also have a nice office for the times you need to stop by.

Here’s the attorney you have been searching for: Barry GoldbergRyan

I was involved in a car accident about a year ago, t-boned by another car which ran a red light. I found myself with a huge hospital bill, several other bills, a totaled car, phone calls and letters every day, and no one to turn to for help. I attempted to do things on my own, and quickly got in over my head. A friend found Barry’s website, so after a couple months of being stressed and overwhelmed, I gave him a call and we set up a free consultation.

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